We all have that one TV show that speaks to us. Maybe it’s the storyline; maybe it’s the setting; maybe we’ve fallen in love with one of the characters. But, could you imagine actually living inside the alternate universe that encompasses it? That’s exactly what happens in fantasy adventure film Pleasantville (1998) as twins David (Tobey Maguire) and Jennifer (Reese Witherspoon) are transported from their broken 1990s world to the seemingly perfect 1950s town of David’s favorite show, “Pleasantville.” Along the way, these siblings learn valuable lessons and teach these to their newfound neighbors, ideas which include change, acceptance, and that knowledge really is power. Although this film is nearly two decades old, it still holds significant implications for today’s political and social climate.
In one of the strongest points of the film, director and screenwriter Gary Ross does an incredible job writing a story that allows characters to grow and develop. As David and Jennifer enter their new town, they become Bud and Mary Sue Parker, main characters of the TV show. Everything around them is in black-and-white, just as it appears on TV. They begin to expand the minds of everyone around them, by using new vocabulary, speaking about places beyond Pleasantville, and encouraging the townspeople to read books. At first, they unintentionally begin bringing color into this new world. Along the way, such topics as gender roles and individuality emerge. This is not met without adversity, however. While some fully embrace this change, others are much more reluctant. Conflict arises between those who are still in black and white and those labeled as “coloreds.” Oxymoronically, those who are concerned with keeping the town the same, or “pleasant,” are also the ones who are willing to cause the most harm to ensure it stays this way.
Another strong point comes from the impeccable casting. Each actor seems perfectly suited for his/her role. In many ways, Maguire and Witherspoon had to conquer the extremely difficult task of acting in a world within a world. Witherspoon moves seamlessly from rebellious 90s teenager to rebellious 90s teenager in a 50s world. In classic Reese fashion, her face expressions are just as significant as her dialogue. She frowns in horror as she realizes she is stuck in this alternate dimension. She smirks as she sarcastically says such things as, “well, gee whillikers” or asks for a salad, when she knows that the she is in a diner that only serves hamburgers.
Another strong point comes from the impeccable casting. Each actor seems perfectly suited for his/her role. In many ways, Maguire and Witherspoon had to conquer the extremely difficult task of acting in a world within a world. Witherspoon moves seamlessly from rebellious 90s teenager to rebellious 90s teenager in a 50s world. In classic Reese fashion, her face expressions are just as significant as her dialogue. She frowns in horror as she realizes she is stuck in this alternate dimension. She smirks as she sarcastically says such things as, “well, gee whillikers” or asks for a salad, when she knows that the she is in a diner that only serves hamburgers.
Another acting standout is William H. Macy, who plays George Parker, father to Bud and Mary Sue. His traditional ideals of husband as provider and wife as homemaker are challenged when color comes to town. In one particularly funny scene, he comes home like he always does, and when he can’t find his wife anywhere, he wanders around the house, bewildered, repeatedly asking, “where’s my dinner?” Macy does an incredible job of portraying a person who struggles to accept change, all while keeping up the persona of a 1950s TV dad and husband.
Other strengths in the film include the cinematography, which utilizes low-angle shots, an obvious nod to other horror and fantasy films. The set design, visual effects, and hair and makeup truly transport the viewer to another world.
The only weak point is the film’s ending, which also doubles as a strength. I was frustrated by the fact that it can be left up to interpretation, but, because of the way it was written and performed, it actually worked well.
Other strengths in the film include the cinematography, which utilizes low-angle shots, an obvious nod to other horror and fantasy films. The set design, visual effects, and hair and makeup truly transport the viewer to another world.
The only weak point is the film’s ending, which also doubles as a strength. I was frustrated by the fact that it can be left up to interpretation, but, because of the way it was written and performed, it actually worked well.
This film is entertaining, yet thought-provoking. Although it is a fantasy film, it offers real-world applications that are very relevant for today. It easily makes my all-time favorite films list.
Check back here next week for more reviews!
Film Grade: A+
Until Next Time,
Kathryn (The Redhead Behind the Reviews)
1/31/18
Check back here next week for more reviews!
Film Grade: A+
Until Next Time,
Kathryn (The Redhead Behind the Reviews)
1/31/18